The problem, therefore, is how to get all members interested in the union, and more especially the younger generation of unionists.
I am convinced from long experience that unionism is of the greatest necessity for the welfare of wage-earners.
Yet it is by no means uncommon to find the necessity held very lightly. Nothing but unionism has lifted the worker to his present position; nothing but apathetic indifference prevents further progress. Some time ago the Grocers' Assistants' Union prepared a syllabus of varied features for the monthly meetings.
Various matters were discussed - some relating to the trade, others to topics outside the grocers' business. The Tailors' Union has now devised a similar plan. The ordinary business is pleasantly sandwiched with wider and more popular interests.
A regular syllabus is now in course of preparation, and already the experiment has proved successful. The attendances at the meetings have doubled, with a full prospect of greater success immediately the plan becomes more widely known. I understand that the new syllabus will cover trade subjects as well as popular questions.
Then card tournaments and socials will be organised, and altogether the innovation promises to be very popular with members. (by Hon. J. T. Paul, M.L.C.)
• A local man was charged at the Kaitangata Court on Thursday with keeping liquor for sale, and also with keeping premises as a resort for the consumption of liquor (reports the Clutha Leader). Inspector Dwyer prosecuted, and Mr R. R. Grigor, who appeared for the defendant, pleaded "Not Guilty". The case lasted some four hours. The police evidence showed that the premises had been under close observation by the police for a week, during which time various persons were seen to go in and to come out in a state of intoxication. When the raid was made by Constables Harvey and Murray on October 19 four kegs (one full) of beer were seized, one bottle of whisky, and several empty bottles. Three residents who were on the premises were also charged.
The defence was an admission that the defendant had been "on the spree" for a week, and had been entertaining his friends. Evidence was adduced to show that the defendant was a hard-working man, earning good wages, with only very occasional lapses, owing no money, and able to pay for his "spree".
The residents who were found on the premises gave satisfactory reasons for being present. His Worship dismissed all the charges.
ODT, 16.11.1912
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